Gross: Rick Nash's injury overseas raises issues for NHL

Contrary to the hysteric internet rumors — are there any other kind? — Rangers sniper Rick Nash suffered no more than a bone bruise to his shoulder last week while playing for HC Davos, his Swiss League team during the NHL lockout.

But what if?

What if Nash or another NHL player suffers a long-term or career-threatening injury while playing for a European or Russian team during the lockout, or even an Alaskan-based ECHL team such as ex-Rangers Brandon Dubinsky and Scott Gomez have opted?

The short answer likely would be another fight between the NHL and the NHL Players’ Association since no precedent has been set.

One agent said Monday he believes such an injured player would argue he was fulfilling the language in his NHL contract that demands he stay in shape. Obviously, the NHL team would argue otherwise and possibly seek nullification of the deal.

Likely, it would head to a grievance proceeding or a court of law.

Despite Nash’s scare — an MRI revealed no structural damage — Rangers general manager Glen Sather said he was not particularly worried about such a scenario.

"It’s no different playing over there than playing here because here you can get hurt playing in the American League (AHL) or you can get hurt playing junior," Sather said. "I don’t think it’s a huge risk for anyone to play.

"[Nash] knew where he was going, he’d been there before [during the 2004-05 lockout] so I’m sure he knows their medical people are good," Sather added. "I’m sure they’re giving him all the treatment that he needs."

In preparation for the inevitable lockout, the agent said the NHLPA stressed the need to secure disability insurance for players headed overseas. In most cases, the European or Russian clubs are picking up the sizable tab.

First, there’s temporary disability that can convert to total disability after two years. If a player suffers an injury that sidelines him for two years, it’s deemed he won’t play again.

The Rangers do not have a player who’s signed in the Russian KHL. But last year’s plane crash that devastated the Lokomotiv club is still a fresh memory. So is Rangers’ prospect Alexei Cherepanov collapsing and dying during a KHL game in 2008.

"Well, I think Russia is a little bit different," Sather said. "I would think the people in Russia are probably experienced, maybe some of them aren’t as good."